Through a series of interactive lessons, pupils examined life in slum settlements and considered practical ways housing could be improved to enhance residents’ quality of life.

To extend their learning, students were given an ambitious and creative homework project: to design and construct a model of a home that could be low-cost, sustainable, and suitable for self-build or community-build schemes. These homes needed to address real-world challenges—affordability, sustainability, and community cohesion—while aiming to transform the living conditions in informal settlements.

In keeping with the project’s sustainability focus, models had to be made entirely from recycled or repurposed materials. Pupils embraced the challenge enthusiastically, using cardboard, yoghurt pots, straws, lolly sticks, and egg cartons to bring their designs to life. Each model was paired with a written explanation, highlighting the home’s key features and demonstrating how it would support social, economic, and environmental wellbeing for its residents.

Geography teacher Mrs Woods praised the students’ creativity and thoughtfulness:
“I am incredibly proud of our Year 7 pupils — their designs were imaginative, well-considered, and showed real engagement with the idea of 'sense of place'. They thought carefully about creating homes that meet the needs of people, helping them thrive socially, economically, and environmentally. These pupils are truly geographers of the future!”

The project not only strengthened pupils’ understanding of global geography but also allowed them to think like designers, problem-solvers, and global citizens. A huge well done to all of Year 7 for their inspired and thoughtful work!